Lockport, Louisiana - On June 8, 2024, just after 6:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop C started looking into a fatal collision involving two vehicles on Louisiana Highway 308 near McCloud Drive. The crash resulted in the deaths of three individuals: Ethelwaldo Dejesus, 55, from Metairie, Braysi Pineda Zuniga, 30, from Kenner, and Page Abadie, 49, from Galliano.

Initial findings showed that Dejesus was driving a 2018 Honda Accord at a fast speed in the southbound direction on LA Hwy 308 while navigating a right curve. Simultaneously, a 2022 Honda Pilot was headed north on the same highway. It is still unclear why the Accord veered across the centerline and collided with the Pilot in a head-on crash.

Dejesus and his passenger, Pineda Zuniga, were killed instantly in the crash. The driver of the Pilot suffered serious injuries and was taken to a hospital outside the area. Abadie, another passenger in the Pilot, also died at the scene. According to Louisiana State Police, everyone involved in the crash was wearing seat belts except for Dejesus.

Standard toxicology samples were taken from both drivers for analysis and this collision is still being investigated.

Driving over the speed limit reduces the time it takes to react, increases the distance it takes to stop, raises the risk of losing control, and weakens the protection provided by seatbelts in the event of a crash. Adhering to speed limits and practicing safe driving habits are crucial in ensuring the safety and welfare of everyone on the road.

Troop C has investigated 10 deadly crashes that caused 12 deaths so far in 2024.